Steerable laser probe

ABSTRACT

A steerable laser probe may include a handle having a handle distal end and a handle proximal end, an auto-fixing actuation control, a housing tube having a housing tube distal end and a housing tube proximal end, a first housing tube portion having a first stiffness, a second housing tube portion having a second stiffness, and an optic fiber disposed within an inner bore of the handle and the housing tube. An actuation of the auto-fixing actuation control may gradually curve the housing tube. A gradual curving of the housing tube may gradually curve the optic fiber.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This Application is a continuation of prior application Ser. No.15/098,540, filed Apr. 14, 2016.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to a surgical instrument, and, moreparticularly, to a steerable laser probe.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A wide variety of ophthalmic procedures require a laser energy source.For example, ophthalmic surgeons may use laser photocoagulation to treatproliferative retinopathy. Proliferative retinopathy is a conditioncharacterized by the development of abnormal blood vessels in the retinathat grow into the vitreous humor. Ophthalmic surgeons may treat thiscondition by energizing a laser to cauterize portions of the retina toprevent the abnormal blood vessels from growing and hemorrhaging.

In order to increase the chances of a successful laser photocoagulationprocedure, it is important that a surgeon is able aim the laser at aplurality of targets within the eye, e.g., by guiding or moving thelaser from a first target to a second target within the eye. It is alsoimportant that the surgeon is able to easily control a movement of thelaser. For example, the surgeon must be able to easily direct a laserbeam by steering the beam to a first position aimed at a first target,guide the laser beam from the first position to a second position aimedat a second target, and hold the laser beam in the second position.Accordingly, there is a need for a surgical laser probe that can beeasily guided to a plurality of targets within the eye.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure presents a steerable laser probe. In one or moreembodiments, a steerable laser probe may comprise a handle having ahandle distal end and a handle proximal end, an auto-fixing actuationcontrol, a housing tube having a housing tube distal end and a housingtube proximal end, a first housing tube portion having a firststiffness, a second housing tube portion having a second stiffness, andan optic fiber disposed within an inner bore of the handle and thehousing tube. Illustratively, an actuation of the auto-fixing actuationcontrol may be configured to gradually curve the housing tube. In one ormore embodiments, a gradual curving of the housing tube may beconfigured to gradually curve the optic fiber.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and further advantages of the present invention may be betterunderstood by referring to the following description in conjunction withthe accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals indicateidentical or functionally similar elements:

FIGS. 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams illustrating an exploded view ofa handle assembly;

FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic diagrams illustrating a handle;

FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C are schematic diagrams illustrating a housing tube;

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exploded view of asteerable laser probe assembly;

FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, and 5E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual curving of an optic fiber;

FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, and 6E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual straightening of an optic fiber;

FIGS. 7A and 7B are schematic diagrams illustrating an exploded view ofa handle assembly;

FIGS. 8A and 8B are schematic diagrams illustrating a handle;

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a housing tube;

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exploded view of asteerable laser probe assembly;

FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, and 11E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual curving of an optic fiber;

FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, and 12E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual straightening of an optic fiber.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENT

FIGS. 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams illustrating an exploded view ofa handle assembly 100. FIG. 1A illustrates a side view of a handleassembly 100. Illustratively, a handle assembly 100 may comprise ahandle end cap 105 having a handle end cap distal end 106 and a handleend cap proximal end 107, an actuation mechanism 110 having an actuationmechanism distal end 111 and an actuation mechanism proximal end 112, anauto-fixing actuation control 120 having an auto-fixing actuationcontrol distal end 121 and an auto-fixing actuation control proximal end122, a handle base 130 having a handle base distal end 131 and a handlebase proximal end 132, a handle end cap interface 135, an auto-fixingcomponent housing 140, and a handle base channel 145.

FIG. 1B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a handle assembly 100. Inone or more embodiments, a handle assembly 100 may comprise an actuationmechanism guide 150, a handle base housing 155, a handle base interface156, an optic fiber housing 160, an inner bore 170, a housing tubehousing 175, a distal chamber 180, and a housing tube guide 190.Illustratively, handle end cap 105, actuation mechanism 110, auto-fixingactuation control 120, and handle base 130 may be manufactured from anysuitable material, e.g., polymers, metals, metal alloys, etc., or fromany combination of suitable materials.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic diagrams illustrating a handle 200. FIG.2A illustrates a side view of a handle 200. Illustratively, handle 200may comprise a handle distal end 201 and a handle proximal end 202. Inone or more embodiments, handle 200 may comprise an actuation controlguide 210 having an actuation control guide distal end 211 and anactuation control guide proximal end 212. Illustratively, handle 200 maybe manufactured from any suitable material, e.g., polymers, metals,metal alloys, etc., or from any combination of suitable materials.

FIG. 2B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a handle 200.Illustratively, actuation mechanism 110 may be disposed within handleend cap 105 and handle base 130. In one or more embodiments, a portionof handle base 130 may be disposed within handle base housing 155, e.g.,handle base proximal end 132 may be disposed within handle base housing155. Illustratively, handle base 130 may be disposed within handle basehousing 155, e.g., handle base proximal end 132 may interface withhandle base interface 156. For example, handle base 130 may be disposedwithin end cap 105 wherein end cap distal end 106 may interface withhandle end cap interface 135. In one or more embodiments, handle base130 may be fixed within handle base housing 155, e.g., by an adhesive orany suitable fixation means. For example, handle base 130 may be fixedwithin handle base housing 155 by a press fit, a setscrew, a weld, etc.Illustratively, handle base 130 and handle end cap 105 may bemanufactured as a single unit.

In one or more embodiments, auto-fixing actuation control 120 may bedisposed within actuation control guide 210. For example, auto-fixingactuation control 120 may be disposed within actuation control guide 210wherein auto-fixing actuation control 120 is adjacent to auto-fixingcomponent housing 140. Illustratively, actuation control guide 210 maycomprise a portion of handle base channel 145. In one or moreembodiments, handle end cap distal end 106 may comprise actuationcontrol guide proximal end 212. Illustratively, auto-fixing actuationcontrol 120 may be configured to actuate within actuation control guide210. In one or more embodiments, actuation mechanism 110 may beconfigured to actuate within actuation mechanism guide 150.Illustratively, an actuation of auto-fixing actuation control 120 may beconfigured to actuate actuation mechanism 110. In one or moreembodiments, an actuation of auto-fixing actuation control 120 withinactuation control guide 210 may be configured to actuate actuationmechanism 110 within actuation mechanism guide 150.

Illustratively, an actuation of auto-fixing actuation control 120 withinactuation control guide 210, e.g., away from actuation control guideproximal end 212 and towards actuation control guide distal end 211, maybe configured to actuate actuation mechanism 110 within actuationmechanism guide 150, e.g., away from handle proximal end 202 and towardshandle distal end 201. In one or more embodiments, an extension ofauto-fixing actuation control 120 relative to actuation control guideproximal end 212 may be configured to extend actuation mechanism 110relative to handle proximal end 202. Illustratively, an extension ofactuation mechanism 110 relative to handle proximal end 202 may beconfigured to extend housing tube housing 175 relative to handleproximal end 202.

In one or more embodiments, an actuation of auto-fixing actuationcontrol 120 within actuation control guide 210, e.g., away fromactuation control guide distal end 211 and towards actuation controlguide proximal end 212 may be configured to actuate actuation mechanism110 within actuation mechanism guide 150, e.g., towards handle proximalend 202 and away from handle distal end 201. Illustratively, aretraction of auto-fixing actuation control 120 relative to actuationcontrol guide proximal end 212 may be configured to retract actuationmechanism 110 relative to handle proximal end 202. In one or moreembodiments, a retraction of actuation mechanism 110 relative to handleproximal end 202 may be configured to retract housing tube housing 175relative to handle proximal end 202.

FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C are schematic diagrams illustrating a housing tube300. In one or more embodiments, housing tube 300 may comprise a housingtube distal end 301 and a housing tube proximal end 302. Housing tube300 may be manufactured from any suitable material, e.g., polymers,metals, metal alloys, etc., or from any combination of suitablematerials. Illustratively, housing tube 300 may be manufactured withdimensions configured for microsurgical procedures. FIG. 3A illustratesa housing tube 300 oriented to illustrate a first housing tube portion320. Illustratively, first housing tube portion 320 may have a firststiffness. FIG. 3B illustrates a housing tube 300 oriented to illustratea second housing tube portion 330. Illustratively, second housing tubeportion 330 may have a second stiffness. In one or more embodiments, thesecond stiffness may be greater than the first stiffness.Illustratively, first housing tube portion 320 may comprise a firstmaterial having a first stiffness. In one or more embodiments, secondhousing tube portion 330 may comprise a second material having a secondstiffness. Illustratively, the second stiffness may be greater than thefirst stiffness.

In one or more embodiments, housing tube 300 may comprise a non-uniforminner diameter or a non-uniform outer diameter, e.g., to vary astiffness of one or more portions of housing tube 300. Illustratively, afirst housing tube portion 320 may comprise a first inner diameter ofhousing tube 300 and a second housing tube portion 330 may comprise asecond inner diameter of housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments,the first inner diameter of housing tube 300 may be larger than thesecond inner diameter of housing tube 300. Illustratively, a firsthousing tube portion 320 may comprise a first outer diameter of housingtube 300 and a second housing tube portion 330 may comprise a secondouter diameter of housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, thefirst outer diameter of housing tube 300 may be smaller than the secondouter diameter of housing tube 300.

In one or more embodiments, first housing tube portion 320 may compriseone or more apertures configured to produce a first stiffness of firsthousing tube portion 320. Illustratively, second housing tube portion330 may comprise a solid portion of housing tube 300 having a secondstiffness. In one or more embodiments, the second stiffness may begreater than the first stiffness. Illustratively, first housing tubeportion 320 may comprise one or more apertures configured to produce afirst stiffness of first housing tube portion 320. In one or moreembodiments, second housing tube portion 330 may comprise one or moreapertures configured to produce a second stiffness of second housingtube portion 330. Illustratively, the second stiffness may be greaterthan the first stiffness.

In one or more embodiments, first housing tube portion 320 may comprisea plurality of slits configured to separate one or more solid portionsof housing tube 300. Illustratively, a plurality of slits may be cut,e.g., laser cut, into first housing tube portion 320. In one or moreembodiments, first housing tube portion 320 may comprise a plurality ofslits configured to minimize a force of friction between housing tube300 and a cannula, e.g., as housing tube 300 is inserted into thecannula or as housing tube 300 is extracted from the cannula. Forexample, each slit of the plurality of slits may comprise one or morearches configured to minimize a force of friction between housing tube300 and a cannula.

FIG. 3C illustrates an angled view of housing tube 300. Illustratively,an optic fiber 310 may be disposed within housing tube 300. In one ormore embodiments, optic fiber 310 may comprise an optic fiber distal end311 and an optic fiber proximal end 312. Illustratively, optic fiber 310may be configured to transmit light, e.g., laser light, illuminationlight, etc. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 may be disposedwithin housing tube 300 wherein optic fiber distal end 311 may beadjacent to housing tube distal end 301. Illustratively, optic fiber 310may be disposed within housing tube 300 wherein a portion of optic fiber310 may be adjacent to a portion of first housing tube portion 320. Inone or more embodiments, a portion of optic fiber 310 may be fixed to aninner portion of housing tube 300, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitablefixation means.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exploded view of asteerable laser probe assembly 400. In one or more embodiments, asteerable laser probe assembly 400 may comprise a handle 200, a housingtube 300 having a housing tube distal end 301 and a housing tubeproximal end 302, an optic fiber 310 having an optic fiber distal end311 and an optic fiber proximal end 312, an auto-fixing component 420having an auto-fixing component distal end 421 and an auto-fixingcomponent proximal end 422, and a light source interface 410.Illustratively, light source interface 410 may be configured tointerface with optic fiber 310, e.g., at optic fiber proximal end 312.In one or more embodiments, light source interface 410 may comprise astandard light source connecter, e.g., an SMA connector.

Illustratively, housing tube 300 may be disposed within housing tubehousing 175, actuation mechanism guide 150, and housing tube guide 190.In one or more embodiments, a portion of housing tube 300 may be fixedwithin housing tube housing 175, e.g., housing tube proximal end 302 maybe fixed within housing tube housing 175. Illustratively, a portion ofhousing tube 300 may be fixed within housing tube housing 175, e.g., byan adhesive or any suitable fixation means. For example, a portion ofhousing tube 300 may be fixed within housing tube housing 175 by a pressfit, a set screw, etc. In one or more embodiments, housing tube 300 maybe fixed within housing tube housing 175 wherein housing tube distal end301 extends from handle distal end 201.

Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may be disposed within optic fiberhousing 160, actuation mechanism guide 150, inner bore 170, housing tube300, and housing tube guide 190. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber310 may be disposed within housing tube 300 wherein optic fiber distalend 311 may be adjacent to housing tube distal end 301. Illustratively,a portion of optic fiber 310 may be fixed within housing tube 300, e.g.,by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means. In one or moreembodiments, a portion of optic fiber 310 may be fixed within opticfiber housing 160, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means.Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may be fixed within optic fiber housing160 and optic fiber 310 may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 300.

In one or more embodiments, an actuation of auto-fixing actuationcontrol 120 within actuation control guide 210, e.g., towards actuationcontrol guide distal end 211 and away from actuation control guideproximal end 212, may be configured to actuate actuation mechanism 110within actuation mechanism guide 150, e.g., towards handle distal end201 and away from handle proximal end 202. Illustratively, an extensionof auto-fixing actuation control 120 relative to actuation control guideproximal end 212 may be configured to extend actuation mechanism 110relative to handle proximal end 202. In one or more embodiments, anextension of actuation mechanism 110 relative to handle proximal end 202may be configured to extend housing tube housing 175 relative to handleproximal end 202. Illustratively, an extension of housing tube housing175 relative to handle proximal end 202 may be configured to extendhousing tube 300 relative to handle proximal end 202. In one or moreembodiments, an extension of housing tube 300 relative to handleproximal end 202 may be configured to extend housing tube 300 relativeto optic fiber 310. Illustratively, a portion of optic fiber 310, e.g.,a portion of optic fiber 310 fixed to housing tube 300, may beconfigured to resist an extension of housing tube 300 relative to opticfiber 310. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 may be configuredto prevent housing tube 300 from extending relative to optic fiber 310.Illustratively, an extension of housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber310 may be configured to apply a force to a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., first housing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, anapplication of a force to a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., firsthousing tube portion 320, may be configured to compress a portion ofhousing tube 300. Illustratively, a compression of a portion of housingtube 300 may be configured to cause housing tube 300 to gradually curve.In one or more embodiments, a gradual curving of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to gradually curve optic fiber 310.

In one or more embodiments, an actuation of auto-fixing actuationcontrol 120 within actuation control guide 210, e.g., towards actuationcontrol guide proximal end 212 and away from actuation control guidedistal end 211, may be configured to actuate actuation mechanism 110within actuation mechanism guide 150, e.g., towards handle proximal end202 and away from handle distal end 201. Illustratively, a retraction ofauto-fixing actuation control 120 relative to actuation control guideproximal end 212 may be configured to retract actuation mechanism 110relative to handle proximal end 202. In one or more embodiments, aretraction of actuation mechanism 110 relative to handle proximal end202 may be configured to retract housing tube housing 175 relative tohandle proximal end 202. Illustratively, a retraction of housing tubehousing 175 relative to handle proximal end 202 may be configured toretract housing tube 300 relative to handle proximal end 202. In one ormore embodiments, a retraction of housing tube 300 relative to handleproximal end 202 may be configured to retract housing tube 300 relativeto optic fiber 310. Illustratively, a portion of optic fiber 310, e.g.,a portion of optic fiber 310 fixed to housing tube 300, may beconfigured to facilitate a retraction of housing tube 300 relative tooptic fiber 310. In one or more embodiments, a retraction of housingtube 300 relative to optic fiber 310 may be configured to reduce a forceapplied to a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., first housing tubeportion 320. Illustratively, a reduction of a force applied to a portionof housing tube 300, e.g., first housing tube portion 320, may beconfigured to decompress a portion of housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, a decompression of a portion of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to cause housing tube 300 to gradually straighten.Illustratively, a gradual straightening of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310.

In one or more embodiments, auto-fixing component 420 may be disposedwithin auto-fixing component housing 140. Illustratively, auto-fixingcomponent 420 may be fixed within auto-fixing component housing 140,e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means. In one or moreembodiments, auto-fixing component 420 may be disposed withinauto-fixing component housing 140 wherein a portion of auto-fixingcomponent 420 may be adjacent to a portion of auto-fixing actuationcontrol 120. Illustratively, auto-fixing component 420 may be configuredto produce a magnetic field, e.g., auto-fixing component 420 maycomprise a permanent magnet. In one or more embodiments, auto-fixingcomponent 420 may comprise a ferromagnetic material, e.g., auto-fixingcomponent 420 may comprise a ferrimagnetic material. Illustratively,auto-fixing actuation control 120 may be configured to produce amagnetic field, e.g., auto-fixing actuation control 120 may comprise apermanent magnetic. In one or more embodiments, auto-fixing actuationcontrol 120 may comprise a ferromagnetic material, e.g., auto-fixingactuation control 120 may comprise a ferrimagnetic material.Illustratively, auto-fixing component 420 may be configured totemporarily fix auto-fixing actuation control 120 in a position withinactuation control guide 210, e.g., a magnetic force attractingauto-fixing actuation control 120 to auto-fixing component 420 may beconfigured to hold auto-fixing actuation control 120 fixed in a positionwithin actuation control guide 210. In one or more embodiments,auto-fixing actuation control 120 may be configured to temporarily fixauto-fixing actuation control 120 in a position within actuation controlguide 210, e.g., a magnetic force attracting auto-fixing component 420to auto-fixing actuation control 120 may be configured to temporarilyhold auto-fixing actuation control 120 fixed in a position withinactuation control guide 210. Illustratively, both auto-fixing component420 and auto-fixing actuation control 120 may be configured totemporarily fix auto-fixing actuation control 120 in a position withinactuation control guide 210, e.g., auto-fixing component 420 andauto-fixing actuation control 120 may both comprise permanent magnetshaving poles oriented to attract auto-fixing component 420 toauto-fixing actuation control 120 and to attract auto-fixing actuationcontrol 120 to auto-fixing component 420.

In one or more embodiments, a surgeon may actuate auto-fixing actuationcontrol 120 within actuation control guide 210, e.g., by applying aforce to a portion of auto-fixing actuation control 120 untilauto-fixing actuation control 120 is in a first desired position withinactuation control guide 210. Illustratively, the surgeon may then removethe force applied to auto-fixing actuation control 120 and perform aportion of a surgical procedure, e.g., auto-fixing actuation control 120and auto-fixing component 420 may be configured to temporarily fixauto-fixing actuation control 120 in the first desired position withinactuation control guide 210. In one or more embodiments, the surgeon mayactuate auto-fixing actuation control 120 within actuation control guide210, e.g., by applying a force to a portion of auto-fixing actuationcontrol 120 until auto-fixing actuation control 120 is in a seconddesired position within actuation control guide 210. Illustratively, thesurgeon may then remove the force applied to auto-fixing actuationcontrol 120 and perform a portion of a surgical procedure, e.g.,auto-fixing actuation control 120 and auto-fixing component 420 may beconfigured to temporarily fix auto-fixing actuation control 120 in thesecond desired position within actuation control guide 210. In one ormore embodiments, the surgeon may actuate auto-fixing actuation control120 within actuation control guide 210, e.g., by applying a force to aportion of auto-fixing actuation control 120 until auto-fixing actuationcontrol 120 is in a third desired position within actuation controlguide 210. Illustratively, the surgeon may then remove the force appliedto auto-fixing actuation control 120 and perform a portion of a surgicalprocedure, e.g., auto-fixing actuation control 120 and auto-fixingcomponent 420 may be configured to temporarily fix auto-fixing actuationcontrol 120 in the third desired position within actuation control guide210. In one or more embodiments, auto-fixing actuation control 120 andauto-fixing component 420 may be configured to temporarily fixauto-fixing actuation control 120 in any desired position withinactuation control guide 210.

FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, and 5E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual curving of an optic fiber 310. FIG. 5A illustrates a straightoptic fiber 500. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 maycomprise a straight optic fiber 500, e.g., when housing tube 300 isfully retracted relative to optic fiber 310. Illustratively, optic fiber310 may comprise a straight optic fiber 500, e.g., when auto-fixingactuation control 120 is fully retracted relative to actuation controlguide proximal end 212. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 maycomprise a straight optic fiber 500, e.g., when actuation mechanism 110is fully retracted relative to handle proximal end 202. For example,optic fiber 310 may comprise a straight optic fiber 500, e.g., whenfirst housing tube portion 320 is fully decompressed. Illustratively, aline tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may be parallel to a linetangent to housing tube proximal end 302, e.g., when optic fiber 310comprises a straight optic fiber 500. In one or more embodiments,auto-fixing actuation control 120 and auto-fixing component 420 may beconfigured to temporarily fix auto-fixing actuation control 120 in afirst fixed position within actuation control guide 210. Illustratively,optic fiber 310 may comprise a straight optic fiber 500, e.g., whenauto-fixing actuation control 120 is fixed in the first fixed positionwithin actuation control guide 210.

FIG. 5B illustrates an optic fiber in a first curved position 510. Inone or more embodiments, an extension of auto-fixing actuation control120 relative to actuation control guide proximal end 212 may beconfigured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from a straight opticfiber 500 to an optic fiber in a first curved position 510.Illustratively, an extension of auto-fixing actuation control 120relative to actuation control guide proximal end 212 may be configuredto extend actuation mechanism 110 relative to handle proximal end 202.In one or more embodiments, an extension of actuation mechanism 110relative to handle proximal end 202 may be configured to extend housingtube 300 relative to optic fiber 310. Illustratively, a portion of opticfiber 310, e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310 fixed to housing tube 300,may be configured to resist an extension of housing tube 300 relative tooptic fiber 310. In one or more embodiments, a portion of optic fiber310 may be configured to apply a force to a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., to resist an extension of housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber310. Illustratively, an application of a force to a portion of housingtube 300 may be configured to compress a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., first housing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, acompression of a portion of housing tube 300 may cause housing tube 300to gradually curve. Illustratively, a gradual curving of housing tube300 may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310, e.g., from astraight optic fiber 500 to an optic fiber in a first curved position510. In one or more embodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distalend 311 may intersect a line tangent to housing tube proximal end 302 ata first angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in afirst curved position 510. In one or more embodiments, the first anglemay comprise any angle greater than zero degrees. For example, the firstangle may comprise a 45 degree angle. Illustratively, auto-fixingactuation control 120 and auto-fixing component 420 may be configured totemporarily fix auto-fixing actuation control 120 in a second fixedposition within actuation control guide 210. In one or more embodiments,optic fiber 310 may comprise an optic fiber in a first curved position510, e.g., when auto-fixing actuation control 120 is fixed in the secondfixed position within actuation control guide 210.

FIG. 5C illustrates an optic fiber in a second curved position 520. Inone or more embodiments, an extension of auto-fixing actuation control120 relative to actuation control guide proximal end 212 may beconfigured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from an optic fiber in afirst curved position 510 to an optic fiber in a second curved position520. Illustratively, an extension of auto-fixing actuation control 120relative to actuation control guide proximal end 212 may be configuredto extend actuation mechanism 110 relative to handle proximal end 202.In one or more embodiments, an extension of actuation mechanism 110relative to handle proximal end 202 may be configured to extend housingtube 300 relative to optic fiber 310. Illustratively, a portion of opticfiber 310, e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310 fixed to housing tube 300,may be configured to resist an extension of housing tube 300 relative tooptic fiber 310. In one or more embodiments, a portion of optic fiber310 may be configured to apply a force to a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., to resist an extension of housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber310. Illustratively, an application of a force to a portion of housingtube 300 may be configured to compress a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., first housing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, acompression of a portion of housing tube 300 may cause housing tube 300to gradually curve. Illustratively, a gradual curving of housing tube300 may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310, e.g., from anoptic fiber in a first curved position 510 to an optic fiber in a secondcurved position 520. In one or more embodiments, a line tangent to opticfiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangent to housing tubeproximal end 302 at a second angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprisesan optic fiber in a second curved position 520. In one or moreembodiments, the second angle may comprise any angle greater than thefirst angle. For example, the second angle may comprise a 90 degreeangle. Illustratively, auto-fixing actuation control 120 and auto-fixingcomponent 420 may be configured to temporarily fix auto-fixing actuationcontrol 120 in a third fixed position within actuation control guide210. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 may comprise an opticfiber in a second curved position 520, e.g., when auto-fixing actuationcontrol 120 is fixed in the third fixed position within actuationcontrol guide 210.

FIG. 5D illustrates an optic fiber in a third curved position 530. Inone or more embodiments, an extension of auto-fixing actuation control120 relative to actuation control guide proximal end 212 may beconfigured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from an optic fiber in asecond curved position 520 to an optic fiber in a third curved position530. Illustratively, an extension of auto-fixing actuation control 120relative to actuation control guide proximal end 212 may be configuredto extend actuation mechanism 110 relative to handle proximal end 202.In one or more embodiments, an extension of actuation mechanism 110relative to handle proximal end 202 may be configured to extend housingtube 300 relative to optic fiber 310. Illustratively, a portion of opticfiber 310, e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310 fixed to housing tube 300,may be configured to resist an extension of housing tube 300 relative tooptic fiber 310. In one or more embodiments, a portion of optic fiber310 may be configured to apply a force to a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., to resist an extension of housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber310. Illustratively, an application of a force to a portion of housingtube 300 may be configured to compress a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., first housing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, acompression of a portion of housing tube 300 may cause housing tube 300to gradually curve. Illustratively, a gradual curving of housing tube300 may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310, e.g., from anoptic fiber in a second curved position 520 to an optic fiber in a thirdcurved position 530. In one or more embodiments, a line tangent to opticfiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangent to housing tubeproximal end 302 at a third angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprisesan optic fiber in a third curved position 530. In one or moreembodiments, the third angle may comprise any angle greater than thesecond angle. For example, the third angle may comprise a 135 degreeangle. Illustratively, auto-fixing actuation control 120 and auto-fixingcomponent 420 may be configured to temporarily fix auto-fixing actuationcontrol 120 in a fourth fixed position within actuation control guide210. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 may comprise an opticfiber in a third curved position 530, e.g., when auto-fixing actuationcontrol 120 is fixed in the fourth fixed position within actuationcontrol guide 210.

FIG. 5E illustrates an optic fiber in a fourth curved position 540. Inone or more embodiments, an extension of auto-fixing actuation control120 relative to actuation control guide proximal end 212 may beconfigured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from an optic fiber in athird curved position 530 to an optic fiber in a fourth curved position540. Illustratively, an extension of auto-fixing actuation control 120relative to actuation control guide proximal end 212 may be configuredto extend actuation mechanism 110 relative to handle proximal end 202.In one or more embodiments, an extension of actuation mechanism 110relative to handle proximal end 202 may be configured to extend housingtube 300 relative to optic fiber 310. Illustratively, a portion of opticfiber 310, e.g., a portion of optic fiber 310 fixed to housing tube 300,may be configured to resist an extension of housing tube 300 relative tooptic fiber 310. In one or more embodiments, a portion of optic fiber310 may be configured to apply a force to a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., to resist an extension of housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber310. Illustratively, an application of a force to a portion of housingtube 300 may be configured to compress a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., first housing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, acompression of a portion of housing tube 300 may cause housing tube 300to gradually curve. Illustratively, a gradual curving of housing tube300 may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310, e.g., from anoptic fiber in a third curved position 530 to an optic fiber in a fourthcurved position 540. In one or more embodiments, a line tangent to opticfiber distal end 311 may be parallel to a line tangent to housing tubeproximal end 302, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber ina fourth curved position 540. Illustratively, auto-fixing actuationcontrol 120 and auto-fixing component 420 may be configured totemporarily fix auto-fixing actuation control 120 in a fifth fixedposition within actuation control guide 210. In one or more embodiments,optic fiber 310 may comprise an optic fiber in a fourth curved position540, e.g., when auto-fixing actuation control 120 is fixed in the fifthfixed position within actuation control guide 210.

In one or more embodiments, one or more properties of a steerable laserprobe may be adjusted to attain one or more desired steerable laserprobe features. Illustratively, a distance that housing tube distal end301 extends from actuation mechanism distal end 111 may be adjusted tovary an amount of actuation of auto-fixing actuation control 120configured to curve housing tube 300 to a particular curved position. Inone or more embodiments, a stiffness of first housing tube portion 320or a stiffness of second housing tube portion 330 may be adjusted tovary an amount of actuation of auto-fixing actuation control 120configured to curve housing tube 300 to a particular curved position.Illustratively, a material comprising first housing tube portion 320 ora material comprising second housing tube portion 330 may be adjusted tovary an amount of actuation of auto-fixing actuation control 120configured to curve housing tube 300 to a particular curved position.

In one or more embodiments, a number of apertures in housing tube 300may be adjusted to vary an amount of actuation of auto-fixing actuationcontrol 120 configured to curve housing tube 300 to a particular curvedposition. Illustratively, a location of one or more apertures in housingtube 300 may be adjusted to vary an amount of actuation of auto-fixingactuation control 120 configured to curve housing tube 300 to aparticular curved position. In one or more embodiments, a geometry ofone or more apertures in housing tube 300 may be adjusted to vary anamount of actuation of auto-fixing actuation control 120 configured tocurve housing tube 300 to a particular curved position. Illustratively,a geometry of one or more apertures in housing tube 300 may be uniform,e.g., each aperture of the one or more apertures may have a samegeometry. In one or more embodiments, a geometry of one or moreapertures in housing tube 300 may be non-uniform, e.g., a first aperturein housing tube 300 may have a first geometry and a second aperture inhousing tube 300 may have a second geometry. Illustratively, a geometryor location of one or more apertures in housing tube 300 may beoptimized to evenly distribute an applied force. For example, a geometryor location of one or more apertures in housing tube 300 may beoptimized to evenly distribute a force applied to first housing tubeportion 320.

Illustratively, a stiffness of first housing tube portion 320 or astiffness of second housing tube portion 330 may be adjusted to vary abend radius of housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a stiffnessof first housing tube portion 320 or a stiffness of second housing tubeportion 330 may be adjusted to vary a radius of curvature of housingtube 300, e.g., when housing tube 300 is in a particular curvedposition. Illustratively, a number of apertures in housing tube 300 maybe adjusted to vary a bend radius of housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, a number of apertures in housing tube 300 may be adjustedto vary a radius of curvature of housing tube 300, e.g., when housingtube 300 is in a particular curved position. Illustratively, a locationor a geometry of one or more apertures in housing tube 300 may beadjusted to vary a bend radius of housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, a location or a geometry of one or more apertures inhousing tube 300 may be adjusted to vary a radius of curvature ofhousing tube 300, e.g., when housing tube 300 is in a particular curvedposition.

In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of optic fiber 310 may beenclosed in an optic fiber sleeve configured to, e.g., protect opticfiber 310, vary a stiffness of optic fiber 310, vary an optical propertyof optic fiber 310, etc. Illustratively, an optic fiber sleeve may beconfigured to compress a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., firsthousing tube portion 320. For example, an optic fiber sleeve may bedisposed over a portion of optic fiber 310 fixed within optic fiberhousing 160 and the optic fiber sleeve may be disposed over a portion ofoptic fiber 310 fixed to a portion of housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, an extension of auto-fixing actuation control 120 relativeto actuation control guide proximal end 212 may be configured to extendhousing tube 300 relative to the optic fiber sleeve. Illustratively, anextension of housing tube 300 relative to the optic fiber sleeve maycause the optic fiber sleeve to apply a force to a portion of housingtube 300, e.g., first housing tube portion 320. Illustratively, anapplication of a force to a portion of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to compress a portion of housing tube 300 causing housingtube 300 to gradually curve.

Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may comprise a buffer, a claddingdisposed in the buffer, and a core disposed in the cladding. In one ormore embodiments, at least a portion of optic fiber 310 may comprise abuffer configured to protect an optical property of optic fiber 310.Illustratively, at least a portion of optic fiber 310 may comprise abuffer configured to protect an optical layer of optic fiber 310, e.g.,the buffer may protect an optical layer of a curved portion of opticfiber 310. In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of optic fiber310 may comprise a polyimide buffer configured to protect an opticalproperty of optic fiber 310. For example, at least a portion of opticfiber 310 may comprise a Kapton buffer configured to protect an opticalproperty of optic fiber 310.

Illustratively, a steerable laser probe may be configured to indicate,e.g., to a surgeon, a direction that optic fiber 310 may curve, e.g.,due to an actuation of auto-fixing actuation control 120 withinactuation control guide 210. In one or more embodiments, a portion of asteerable laser probe, e.g., handle 200, may be marked in a mannerconfigured to indicate a direction that optic fiber 310 may curve. Forexample, a portion of housing tube 300 may comprise a mark configured toindicate a direction that optic fiber 310 may curve. Illustratively,housing tube 300 may comprise a slight curve, e.g., a curve less than7.5 degrees, when auto-fixing actuation control 120 is fully retractedrelative to actuation control guide proximal end 212. For example,housing tube 300 may comprise a slight curve, e.g., a curve greater than7.5 degrees, when auto-fixing actuation control 120 is fully retractedrelative to actuation control guide proximal end 212. In one or moreembodiments, housing tube 300 may comprise a slight curve configured toindicate a direction that optic fiber 310 may curve, e.g., due to anactuation of auto-fixing actuation control 120 within actuation controlguide 210.

FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, and 6E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual straightening of an optic fiber 310. FIG. 6A illustrates a fullycurved optic fiber 600. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 maycomprise a fully curved optic fiber 600, e.g., when auto-fixingactuation control 120 is fully extended relative to actuation controlguide proximal end 212. Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may comprise afully curved optic fiber 600, e.g., when actuation mechanism 110 isfully extended relative to handle proximal end 202. For example, opticfiber 310 may comprise a fully curved optic fiber 600, e.g., when firsthousing tube portion 320 is fully compressed. In one or moreembodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may beparallel to a line tangent to housing tube proximal end 302, e.g., whenoptic fiber 310 comprises a fully curved optic fiber 600.

FIG. 6B illustrates an optic fiber in a first partially straightenedposition 610. In one or more embodiments, a retraction of auto-fixingactuation control 120 relative to actuation control guide proximal end212 may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310 from afully curved optic fiber 600 to an optic fiber in a first partiallystraightened position 610. Illustratively, a retraction of auto-fixingactuation control 120 relative to actuation control guide proximal end212 may be configured to retract actuation mechanism 110 relative tohandle proximal end 202. In one or more embodiments, a retraction ofactuation mechanism 110 relative to handle proximal end 202 may beconfigured to retract housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber 310.Illustratively, a portion of optic fiber 310, e.g., a portion of opticfiber 310 fixed to housing tube 300, may be configured to facilitate aretraction of housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber 310. In one ormore embodiments, a portion of optic fiber 310 may be configured toreduce a force applied to a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., due to aretraction of housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber 310.Illustratively, a reduction of a force applied to a portion of housingtube 300 may be configured to decompress a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., first housing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, adecompression of a portion of housing tube 300 may cause housing tube300 to gradually straighten. Illustratively, a gradual straightening ofhousing tube 300 may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber310, e.g., from a fully curved optic fiber 600 to an optic fiber in afirst partially straightened position 610. In one or more embodiments, aline tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangentto housing tube proximal end 302 at a first partially straightenedangle, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in a firstpartially straightened position 610. Illustratively, the first partiallystraightened angle may comprise any angle less than 180 degrees. Forexample, the first partially straightened angle may comprise a 135degree angle.

FIG. 6C illustrates an optic fiber in a second partially straightenedposition 620. In one or more embodiments, a retraction of auto-fixingactuation control 120 relative to actuation control guide proximal end212 may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310 from anoptic fiber in a first partially straightened position 610 to an opticfiber in a second partially straightened position 620. Illustratively, aretraction of auto-fixing actuation control 120 relative to actuationcontrol guide proximal end 212 may be configured to retract actuationmechanism 110 relative to handle proximal end 202. In one or moreembodiments, a retraction of actuation mechanism 110 relative to handleproximal end 202 may be configured to retract housing tube 300 relativeto optic fiber 310. Illustratively, a portion of optic fiber 310, e.g.,a portion of optic fiber 310 fixed to housing tube 300, may beconfigured to facilitate a retraction of housing tube 300 relative tooptic fiber 310. In one or more embodiments, a portion of optic fiber310 may be configured to reduce a force applied to a portion of housingtube 300, e.g., due to a retraction of housing tube 300 relative tooptic fiber 310. Illustratively, a reduction of a force applied to aportion of housing tube 300 may be configured to decompress a portion ofhousing tube 300, e.g., first housing tube portion 320. In one or moreembodiments, a decompression of a portion of housing tube 300 may causehousing tube 300 to gradually straighten. Illustratively, a gradualstraightening of housing tube 300 may be configured to graduallystraighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from an optic fiber in a firstpartially straightened position 610 to an optic fiber in a secondpartially straightened position 620. In one or more embodiments, a linetangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangent tohousing tube proximal end 302 at a second partially straightened angle,e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in a secondpartially straightened position 620. Illustratively, the secondpartially straightened angle may comprise any angle less than the firstpartially straightened angle. For example, the second partiallystraightened angle may comprise a 90 degree angle.

FIG. 6D illustrates an optic fiber in a third partially straightenedposition 630. In one or more embodiments, a retraction of auto-fixingactuation control 120 relative to actuation control guide proximal end212 may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310 from anoptic fiber in a second partially straightened position 620 to an opticfiber in a third partially straightened position 630. Illustratively, aretraction of auto-fixing actuation control 120 relative to actuationcontrol guide proximal end 212 may be configured to retract actuationmechanism 110 relative to handle proximal end 202. In one or moreembodiments, a retraction of actuation mechanism 110 relative to handleproximal end 202 may be configured to retract housing tube 300 relativeto optic fiber 310. Illustratively, a portion of optic fiber 310, e.g.,a portion of optic fiber 310 fixed to housing tube 300, may beconfigured to facilitate a retraction of housing tube 300 relative tooptic fiber 310. In one or more embodiments, a portion of optic fiber310 may be configured to reduce a force applied to a portion of housingtube 300, e.g., due to a retraction of housing tube 300 relative tooptic fiber 310. Illustratively, a reduction of a force applied to aportion of housing tube 300 may be configured to decompress a portion ofhousing tube 300, e.g., first housing tube portion 320. In one or moreembodiments, a decompression of a portion of housing tube 300 may causehousing tube 300 to gradually straighten. Illustratively, a gradualstraightening of housing tube 300 may be configured to graduallystraighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from an optic fiber in a secondpartially straightened position 620 to an optic fiber in a thirdpartially straightened position 630. In one or more embodiments, a linetangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangent tohousing tube proximal end 302 at a third partially straightened angle,e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in a third partiallystraightened position 630. Illustratively, the third partiallystraightened angle may comprise any angle less than the second partiallystraightened angle. For example, the third partially straightened anglemay comprise a 45 degree angle.

FIG. 6E illustrates an optic fiber in a fully straightened position 640.In one or more embodiments, a retraction of auto-fixing actuationcontrol 120 relative to actuation control guide proximal end 212 may beconfigured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310 from an optic fiberin a third partially straightened position 630 to an optic fiber in afully straightened position 640. Illustratively, a retraction ofauto-fixing actuation control 120 relative to actuation control guideproximal end 212 may be configured to retract actuation mechanism 110relative to handle proximal end 202. In one or more embodiments, aretraction of actuation mechanism 110 relative to handle proximal end202 may be configured to retract housing tube 300 relative to opticfiber 310. Illustratively, a portion of optic fiber 310, e.g., a portionof optic fiber 310 fixed to housing tube 300, may be configured tofacilitate a retraction of housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber 310.In one or more embodiments, a portion of optic fiber 310 may beconfigured to reduce a force applied to a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., due to a retraction of housing tube 300 relative to optic fiber310. Illustratively, a reduction of a force applied to a portion ofhousing tube 300 may be configured to decompress a portion of housingtube 300, e.g., first housing tube portion 320. In one or moreembodiments, a decompression of a portion of housing tube 300 may causehousing tube 300 to gradually straighten. Illustratively, a gradualstraightening of housing tube 300 may be configured to graduallystraighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from an optic fiber in a thirdpartially straightened position 630 to an optic fiber in a fullystraightened position 640. In one or more embodiments, a line tangent tooptic fiber distal end 311 may be parallel to a line tangent to housingtube proximal end 302, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an opticfiber in a fully straightened position 640.

Illustratively, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at any of aplurality of targets within an eye, e.g., to perform a photocoagulationprocedure, to illuminate a surgical target site, etc. In one or moreembodiments, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at any targetwithin a particular transverse plane of the inner eye by, e.g., rotatinghandle 200 to orient housing tube 300 in an orientation configured tocause a curvature of housing tube 300 within the particular transverseplane of the inner eye and varying an amount of actuation of auto-fixingactuation control 120 within actuation control guide 210.Illustratively, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at anytarget within a particular sagittal plane of the inner eye by, e.g.,rotating handle 200 to orient housing tube 300 in an orientationconfigured to cause a curvature of housing tube 300 within theparticular sagittal plane of the inner eye and varying an amount ofactuation of auto-fixing actuation control 120 within actuation controlguide 210. In one or more embodiments, a surgeon may aim optic fiberdistal end 311 at any target within a particular frontal plane of theinner eye by, e.g., varying an amount of actuation of auto-fixingactuation control 120 within actuation control guide 210 to orient aline tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 wherein the line tangent tooptic fiber distal end 311 is within the particular frontal plane of theinner eye and rotating handle 200. Illustratively, a surgeon may aimoptic fiber distal end 311 at any target located outside of theparticular transverse plane, the particular sagittal plane, and theparticular frontal plane of the inner eye, e.g., by varying a rotationalorientation of handle 200 and varying an amount of actuation ofauto-fixing actuation control 120 within actuation control guide 210. Inone or more embodiments, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 atany target of a plurality of targets within an eye, e.g., withoutincreasing a length of a portion of a steerable laser probe within theeye. Illustratively, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at anytarget of a plurality of targets within an eye, e.g., without decreasinga length of a portion of a steerable laser probe within the eye.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are schematic diagrams illustrating an exploded view ofa handle assembly 700. FIG. 7A illustrates a side view of a handleassembly 700. Illustratively, a handle assembly 700 may comprise ahandle end cap 705 having a handle end cap distal end 706 and a handleend cap proximal end 707, an actuation mechanism 710 having an actuationmechanism distal end 711 and an actuation mechanism proximal end 712, anauto-fixing actuation control 720 having an auto-fixing actuationcontrol distal end 721 and an auto-fixing actuation control proximal end722, a handle base 730 having a handle base distal end 731 and a handlebase proximal end 732, a handle end cap interface 735, an auto-fixingcomponent housing 740, and a handle base channel 745.

FIG. 7B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a handle assembly 700. Inone or more embodiments, a handle assembly 700 may comprise an actuationmechanism guide 750, a handle base housing 755, a handle base interface756, an cable housing 760, an inner bore 770, a housing tube housing775, a distal chamber 780, and a housing tube guide 790. Illustratively,handle end cap 705, actuation mechanism 710, auto-fixing actuationcontrol 720, and handle base 730 may be manufactured from any suitablematerial, e.g., polymers, metals, metal alloys, etc., or from anycombination of suitable materials.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are schematic diagrams illustrating a handle 800. FIG.8A illustrates a side view of a handle 800. Illustratively, handle 800may comprise a handle distal end 801 and a handle proximal end 802. Inone or more embodiments, handle 800 may comprise an actuation controlguide 810 having an actuation control guide distal end 811 and anactuation control guide proximal end 812. Illustratively, handle 800 maybe manufactured from any suitable material, e.g., polymers, metals,metal alloys, etc., or from any combination of suitable materials.

FIG. 8B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a handle 800.Illustratively, actuation mechanism 710 may be disposed within handleend cap 705 and handle base 730. In one or more embodiments, a portionof handle base 730 may be disposed within handle base housing 755, e.g.,handle base proximal end 732 may be disposed within handle base housing755. Illustratively, handle base 730 may be disposed within handle basehousing 755, e.g., handle base proximal end 732 may interface withhandle base interface 756. For example, handle base 730 may be disposedwithin end cap 705 wherein end cap distal end 706 may interface withhandle end cap interface 735. In one or more embodiments, handle base730 may be fixed within handle base housing 755, e.g., by an adhesive orany suitable fixation means. For example, handle base 730 may be fixedwithin handle base housing 755 by a press fit, a setscrew, a weld, etc.Illustratively, handle base 730 and handle end cap 705 may bemanufactured as a single unit.

In one or more embodiments, auto-fixing actuation control 720 may bedisposed within actuation control guide 810. For example, auto-fixingactuation control 720 may be disposed within actuation control guide 810wherein auto-fixing actuation control 720 is adjacent to auto-fixingcomponent housing 740. Illustratively, actuation control guide 810 maycomprise a portion of handle base channel 745. In one or moreembodiments, handle end cap distal end 706 may comprise actuationcontrol guide proximal end 812. Illustratively, auto-fixing actuationcontrol 720 may be configured to actuate within actuation control guide810. In one or more embodiments, actuation mechanism 710 may beconfigured to actuate within actuation mechanism guide 750.Illustratively, an actuation of auto-fixing actuation control 720 may beconfigured to actuate actuation mechanism 710. In one or moreembodiments, an actuation of auto-fixing actuation control 720 withinactuation control guide 810 may be configured to actuate actuationmechanism 710 within actuation mechanism guide 750.

Illustratively, an actuation of auto-fixing actuation control 720 withinactuation control guide 810, e.g., away from actuation control guideproximal end 812 and towards actuation control guide distal end 811, maybe configured to actuate actuation mechanism 710 within actuationmechanism guide 750, e.g., away from handle proximal end 802 and towardshandle distal end 801. In one or more embodiments, an extension ofauto-fixing actuation control 720 relative to actuation control guideproximal end 812 may be configured to extend actuation mechanism 710relative to handle proximal end 802. Illustratively, an extension ofactuation mechanism 710 relative to handle proximal end 802 may beconfigured to extend housing tube housing 775 relative to handleproximal end 802.

In one or more embodiments, an actuation of auto-fixing actuationcontrol 720 within actuation control guide 810, e.g., away fromactuation control guide distal end 811 and towards actuation controlguide proximal end 812 may be configured to actuate actuation mechanism710 within actuation mechanism guide 750, e.g., towards handle proximalend 802 and away from handle distal end 801. Illustratively, aretraction of auto-fixing actuation control 720 relative to actuationcontrol guide proximal end 812 may be configured to retract actuationmechanism 710 relative to handle proximal end 802. In one or moreembodiments, a retraction of actuation mechanism 710 relative to handleproximal end 802 may be configured to retract housing tube housing 775relative to handle proximal end 802.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a housing tube 300.Illustratively, an optic fiber 310 may be disposed within housing tube300. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 may comprise an opticfiber distal end 311 and an optic fiber proximal end 312.Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may be configured to transmit light,e.g., laser light, illumination light, etc. In one or more embodiments,optic fiber 310 may be disposed within housing tube 300 wherein opticfiber distal end 311 may be adjacent to housing tube distal end 301.Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may be disposed within housing tube 300wherein a portion of optic fiber 310 may be adjacent to a portion offirst housing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, a portion ofoptic fiber 310 may be fixed to an inner portion of housing tube 300,e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means.

Illustratively, a cable 910 may be disposed in housing tube 300. In oneor more embodiments, cable 910 may comprise a cable distal end 911 and acable proximal end 912. In one or more embodiments, cable 910 may bedisposed within housing tube 300 wherein cable distal end 911 may beadjacent to housing tube distal end 301. Illustratively, cable 910 maybe disposed within housing tube 300 wherein a portion of cable 910 maybe adjacent to a portion of first housing tube portion 320. In one ormore embodiments, a portion of cable 910 may be fixed to a portion ofhousing tube 300, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means.For example, cable 810 may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 300 bya weld, a mechanical means, a tie, etc.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exploded view of asteerable laser probe assembly 1000. In one or more embodiments, asteerable laser probe assembly 1000 may comprise a handle 800, a housingtube 300 having a housing tube distal end 301 and a housing tubeproximal end 302, an optic fiber 310 having an optic fiber distal end311 and an optic fiber proximal end 312, a cable 910 having a cabledistal end 911 and a cable proximal end 912, an auto-fixing component420 having an auto-fixing component distal end 421 and an auto-fixingcomponent proximal end 422, and a light source interface 410.Illustratively, light source interface 410 may be configured tointerface with optic fiber 310, e.g., at optic fiber proximal end 312.In one or more embodiments, light source interface 410 may comprise astandard light source connecter, e.g., an SMA connector.

Illustratively, housing tube 300 may be disposed within housing tubehousing 775, actuation mechanism guide 750, and housing tube guide 790.In one or more embodiments, a portion of housing tube 300 may be fixedwithin housing tube housing 775, e.g., housing tube proximal end 302 maybe fixed within housing tube housing 775. Illustratively, a portion ofhousing tube 300 may be fixed within housing tube housing 775, e.g., byan adhesive or any suitable fixation means. For example, a portion ofhousing tube 300 may be fixed within housing tube housing 775 by a pressfit, a set screw, etc. In one or more embodiments, housing tube 300 maybe fixed within housing tube housing 775 wherein housing tube distal end301 extends from handle distal end 801.

Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may be disposed within cable housing760, actuation mechanism guide 750, inner bore 770, housing tube 300,and housing tube guide 790. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310may be disposed within housing tube 300 wherein optic fiber distal end311 may be adjacent to housing tube distal end 301. Illustratively, aportion of optic fiber 310 may be fixed within housing tube 300, e.g.,by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means. In one or moreembodiments, cable 910 may be disposed within cable housing 760,actuation mechanism guide 750, inner bore 770, housing tube 300, andhousing tube guide 790. Illustratively, cable 910 may be disposed withinhousing tube 300 wherein cable distal end 911 may be adjacent to housingtube distal end 301. In one or more embodiments, a portion of cable 910may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., by an adhesive orany suitable fixation means. For example, cable 910 may be fixed to aportion of housing tube 300 by a weld, a tie, a set-screw, etc.Illustratively, a portion of cable 910 may be fixed within cable housing760, e.g., cable proximal end 912 may be fixed within cable housing 760.In one or more embodiments, a portion of cable 910 may be fixed withincable housing 760, e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means.For example, cable 910 may be fixed within cable housing 760 by a weld,a tie, a setscrew, etc. Illustratively, a first portion of cable 910 maybe fixed within cable housing 760 and a second portion of cable 910 maybe fixed to a portion of housing tube 300.

In one or more embodiments, an actuation of auto-fixing actuationcontrol 720 within actuation control guide 810, e.g., towards actuationcontrol guide distal end 811 and away from actuation control guideproximal end 812, may be configured to actuate actuation mechanism 710within actuation mechanism guide 750, e.g., towards handle distal end801 and away from handle proximal end 802. Illustratively, an extensionof auto-fixing actuation control 720 relative to actuation control guideproximal end 812 may be configured to extend actuation mechanism 710relative to handle proximal end 802. In one or more embodiments, anextension of actuation mechanism 710 relative to handle proximal end 802may be configured to extend housing tube housing 775 relative to handleproximal end 802. Illustratively, an extension of housing tube housing775 relative to handle proximal end 802 may be configured to extendhousing tube 300 relative to handle proximal end 802. In one or moreembodiments, an extension of housing tube 300 relative to handleproximal end 802 may be configured to extend housing tube 300 relativeto cable 910. Illustratively, a portion of cable 910, e.g., a portion ofcable 910 fixed to housing tube 300, may be configured to resist anextension of housing tube 300 relative to optic cable 910. In one ormore embodiments, a portion of cable 910 may be configured to preventhousing tube 300 from extending relative to cable 910. Illustratively,an extension of housing tube 300 relative to cable 910 may be configuredto apply a force to a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., first housingtube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, an application of a forceto a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., first housing tube portion 320,may be configured to compress a portion of housing tube 300.Illustratively, a compression of a portion of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to cause housing tube 300 to gradually curve. In one or moreembodiments, a gradual curving of housing tube 300 may be configured togradually curve optic fiber 310.

In one or more embodiments, an actuation of auto-fixing actuationcontrol 720 within actuation control guide 810, e.g., towards actuationcontrol guide proximal end 812 and away from actuation control guidedistal end 811, may be configured to actuate actuation mechanism 710within actuation mechanism guide 750, e.g., towards handle proximal end802 and away from handle distal end 801. Illustratively, a retraction ofauto-fixing actuation control 720 relative to actuation control guideproximal end 812 may be configured to retract actuation mechanism 710relative to handle proximal end 802. In one or more embodiments, aretraction of actuation mechanism 710 relative to handle proximal end802 may be configured to retract housing tube housing 775 relative tohandle proximal end 802. Illustratively, a retraction of housing tubehousing 775 relative to handle proximal end 802 may be configured toretract housing tube 300 relative to handle proximal end 802. In one ormore embodiments, a retraction of housing tube 300 relative to handleproximal end 802 may be configured to retract housing tube 300 relativeto cable 910. Illustratively, a portion of cable 910, e.g., a portion ofcable 910 fixed to housing tube 300, may be configured to facilitate aretraction of housing tube 300 relative to cable 910. In one or moreembodiments, a retraction of housing tube 300 relative to cable 910 maybe configured to reduce a force applied to a portion of housing tube300, e.g., first housing tube portion 320. Illustratively, a reductionof a force applied to a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., first housingtube portion 320, may be configured to decompress a portion of housingtube 300. In one or more embodiments, a decompression of a portion ofhousing tube 300 may be configured to cause housing tube 300 togradually straighten. Illustratively, a gradual straightening of housingtube 300 may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310.

In one or more embodiments, auto-fixing component 420 may be disposedwithin auto-fixing component housing 740. Illustratively, auto-fixingcomponent 420 may be fixed within auto-fixing component housing 740,e.g., by an adhesive or any suitable fixation means. In one or moreembodiments, auto-fixing component 420 may be disposed withinauto-fixing component housing 740 wherein a portion of auto-fixingcomponent 420 may be adjacent to a portion of auto-fixing actuationcontrol 720. Illustratively, auto-fixing component 420 may be configuredto produce a magnetic field, e.g., auto-fixing component 420 maycomprise a permanent magnet. In one or more embodiments, auto-fixingcomponent 420 may comprise a ferromagnetic material, e.g., auto-fixingcomponent 420 may comprise a ferrimagnetic material. Illustratively,auto-fixing actuation control 720 may be configured to produce amagnetic field, e.g., auto-fixing actuation control 720 may comprise apermanent magnetic. In one or more embodiments, auto-fixing actuationcontrol 720 may comprise a ferromagnetic material, e.g., auto-fixingactuation control 720 may comprise a ferrimagnetic material.Illustratively, auto-fixing component 420 may be configured totemporarily fix auto-fixing actuation control 720 in a position withinactuation control guide 810, e.g., a magnetic force attractingauto-fixing actuation control 720 to auto-fixing component 420 may beconfigured to hold auto-fixing actuation control 720 fixed in a positionwithin actuation control guide 810. In one or more embodiments,auto-fixing actuation control 720 may be configured to temporarily fixauto-fixing actuation control 720 in a position within actuation controlguide 810, e.g., a magnetic force attracting auto-fixing component 420to auto-fixing actuation control 720 may be configured to temporarilyhold auto-fixing actuation control 720 fixed in a position withinactuation control guide 810. Illustratively, both auto-fixing component420 and auto-fixing actuation control 720 may be configured totemporarily fix auto-fixing actuation control 720 in a position withinactuation control guide 210, e.g., auto-fixing component 420 andauto-fixing actuation control 720 may both comprise permanent magnetshaving poles oriented to attract auto-fixing component 420 toauto-fixing actuation control 720 and to attract auto-fixing actuationcontrol 720 to auto-fixing component 420.

In one or more embodiments, a surgeon may actuate auto-fixing actuationcontrol 720 within actuation control guide 810, e.g., by applying aforce to a portion of auto-fixing actuation control 720 untilauto-fixing actuation control 720 is in a first desired position withinactuation control guide 810. Illustratively, the surgeon may then removethe force applied to auto-fixing actuation control 720 and perform aportion of a surgical procedure, e.g., auto-fixing actuation control 720and auto-fixing component 420 may be configured to temporarily fixauto-fixing actuation control 720 in the first desired position withinactuation control guide 810. In one or more embodiments, the surgeon mayactuate auto-fixing actuation control 720 within actuation control guide810, e.g., by applying a force to a portion of auto-fixing actuationcontrol 720 until auto-fixing actuation control 720 is in a seconddesired position within actuation control guide 810. Illustratively, thesurgeon may then remove the force applied to auto-fixing actuationcontrol 720 and perform a portion of a surgical procedure, e.g.,auto-fixing actuation control 720 and auto-fixing component 420 may beconfigured to temporarily fix auto-fixing actuation control 720 in thesecond desired position within actuation control guide 810. In one ormore embodiments, the surgeon may actuate auto-fixing actuation control720 within actuation control guide 810, e.g., by applying a force to aportion of auto-fixing actuation control 720 until auto-fixing actuationcontrol 720 is in a third desired position within actuation controlguide 810. Illustratively, the surgeon may then remove the force appliedto auto-fixing actuation control 720 and perform a portion of a surgicalprocedure, e.g., auto-fixing actuation control 720 and auto-fixingcomponent 420 may be configured to temporarily fix auto-fixing actuationcontrol 720 in the third desired position within actuation control guide810. In one or more embodiments, auto-fixing actuation control 720 andauto-fixing component 420 may be configured to temporarily fixauto-fixing actuation control 720 in any desired position withinactuation control guide 810.

FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, and 11E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual curving of an optic fiber 310. FIG. 11A illustrates a straightoptic fiber 1100. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 maycomprise a straight optic fiber 1100, e.g., when housing tube 300 isfully retracted relative to cable 910. Illustratively, optic fiber 310may comprise a straight optic fiber 1100, e.g., when auto-fixingactuation control 720 is fully retracted relative to actuation controlguide proximal end 812. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 maycomprise a straight optic fiber 1100, e.g., when actuation mechanism 710is fully retracted relative to handle proximal end 802. For example,optic fiber 310 may comprise a straight optic fiber 1100, e.g., whenfirst housing tube portion 320 is fully decompressed. Illustratively, aline tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may be parallel to a linetangent to housing tube proximal end 302, e.g., when optic fiber 310comprises a straight optic fiber 1100. In one or more embodiments,auto-fixing actuation control 720 and auto-fixing component 420 may beconfigured to temporarily fix auto-fixing actuation control 720 in afirst fixed position within actuation control guide 810. Illustratively,optic fiber 310 may comprise a straight optic fiber 1100, e.g., whenauto-fixing actuation control 720 is fixed in the first fixed positionwithin actuation control guide 810.

FIG. 11B illustrates an optic fiber in a first curved position 1110. Inone or more embodiments, an extension of auto-fixing actuation control720 relative to actuation control guide proximal end 812 may beconfigured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from a straight opticfiber 1100 to an optic fiber in a first curved position 1110.Illustratively, an extension of auto-fixing actuation control 720relative to actuation control guide proximal end 812 may be configuredto extend actuation mechanism 710 relative to handle proximal end 802.In one or more embodiments, an extension of actuation mechanism 710relative to handle proximal end 802 may be configured to extend housingtube 300 relative to cable 910. Illustratively, a portion of cable 910,e.g., a portion of cable 910 fixed to housing tube 300, may beconfigured to resist an extension of housing tube 300 relative to cable910. In one or more embodiments, a portion of cable 910 may beconfigured to apply a force to a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., toresist an extension of housing tube 300 relative to cable 910.Illustratively, an application of a force to a portion of housing tube300 may be configured to compress a portion of housing tube 300, e.g.,first housing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, acompression of a portion of housing tube 300 may cause housing tube 300to gradually curve. Illustratively, a gradual curving of housing tube300 may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310, e.g., from astraight optic fiber 1100 to an optic fiber in a first curved position1110. In one or more embodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distalend 311 may intersect a line tangent to housing tube proximal end 302 ata first angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiber in afirst curved position 1110. In one or more embodiments, the first anglemay comprise any angle greater than zero degrees. For example, the firstangle may comprise a 45 degree angle. Illustratively, auto-fixingactuation control 720 and auto-fixing component 420 may be configured totemporarily fix auto-fixing actuation control 720 in a second fixedposition within actuation control guide 810. In one or more embodiments,optic fiber 310 may comprise an optic fiber in a first curved position1110, e.g., when auto-fixing actuation control 720 is fixed in thesecond fixed position within actuation control guide 810.

FIG. 11C illustrates an optic fiber in a second curved position 1120. Inone or more embodiments, an extension of auto-fixing actuation control720 relative to actuation control guide proximal end 812 may beconfigured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from an optic fiber in afirst curved position 1110 to an optic fiber in a second curved position1120. Illustratively, an extension of auto-fixing actuation control 720relative to actuation control guide proximal end 812 may be configuredto extend actuation mechanism 710 relative to handle proximal end 802.In one or more embodiments, an extension of actuation mechanism 710relative to handle proximal end 802 may be configured to extend housingtube 300 relative to cable 910. Illustratively, a portion of cable 910,e.g., a portion of cable 910 fixed to housing tube 300, may beconfigured to resist an extension of housing tube 300 relative to cable910. In one or more embodiments, a portion of cable 910 may beconfigured to apply a force to a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., toresist an extension of housing tube 300 relative to cable 910.Illustratively, an application of a force to a portion of housing tube300 may be configured to compress a portion of housing tube 300, e.g.,first housing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, acompression of a portion of housing tube 300 may cause housing tube 300to gradually curve. Illustratively, a gradual curving of housing tube300 may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310, e.g., from anoptic fiber in a first curved position 1110 to an optic fiber in asecond curved position 1120. In one or more embodiments, a line tangentto optic fiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangent to housingtube proximal end 302 at a second angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310comprises an optic fiber in a second curved position 1120. In one ormore embodiments, the second angle may comprise any angle greater thanthe first angle. For example, the second angle may comprise a 90 degreeangle. Illustratively, auto-fixing actuation control 720 and auto-fixingcomponent 420 may be configured to temporarily fix auto-fixing actuationcontrol 720 in a third fixed position within actuation control guide810. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 may comprise an opticfiber in a second curved position 1120, e.g., when auto-fixing actuationcontrol 720 is fixed in the third fixed position within actuationcontrol guide 810.

FIG. 11D illustrates an optic fiber in a third curved position 1130. Inone or more embodiments, an extension of auto-fixing actuation control720 relative to actuation control guide proximal end 812 may beconfigured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from an optic fiber in asecond curved position 1120 to an optic fiber in a third curved position1130. Illustratively, an extension of auto-fixing actuation control 720relative to actuation control guide proximal end 812 may be configuredto extend actuation mechanism 710 relative to handle proximal end 802.In one or more embodiments, an extension of actuation mechanism 710relative to handle proximal end 802 may be configured to extend housingtube 300 relative to cable 910. Illustratively, a portion of cable 910,e.g., a portion of cable 910 fixed to housing tube 300, may beconfigured to resist an extension of housing tube 300 relative to cable910. In one or more embodiments, a portion of cable 910 may beconfigured to apply a force to a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., toresist an extension of housing tube 300 relative to cable 910.Illustratively, an application of a force to a portion of housing tube300 may be configured to compress a portion of housing tube 300, e.g.,first housing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, acompression of a portion of housing tube 300 may cause housing tube 300to gradually curve. Illustratively, a gradual curving of housing tube300 may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310, e.g., from anoptic fiber in a second curved position 1120 to an optic fiber in athird curved position 1130. In one or more embodiments, a line tangentto optic fiber distal end 311 may intersect a line tangent to housingtube proximal end 302 at a third angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310comprises an optic fiber in a third curved position 1130. In one or moreembodiments, the third angle may comprise any angle greater than thesecond angle. For example, the third angle may comprise a 135 degreeangle. Illustratively, auto-fixing actuation control 720 and auto-fixingcomponent 420 may be configured to temporarily fix auto-fixing actuationcontrol 720 in a fourth fixed position within actuation control guide810. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber 310 may comprise an opticfiber in a third curved position 1130, e.g., when auto-fixing actuationcontrol 720 is fixed in the fourth fixed position within actuationcontrol guide 810.

FIG. 11E illustrates an optic fiber in a fourth curved position 1140. Inone or more embodiments, an extension of auto-fixing actuation control720 relative to actuation control guide proximal end 812 may beconfigured to gradually curve optic fiber 310 from an optic fiber in athird curved position 1130 to an optic fiber in a fourth curved position1140. Illustratively, an extension of auto-fixing actuation control 720relative to actuation control guide proximal end 812 may be configuredto extend actuation mechanism 710 relative to handle proximal end 802.In one or more embodiments, an extension of actuation mechanism 710relative to handle proximal end 802 may be configured to extend housingtube 300 relative to cable 910. Illustratively, a portion of cable 910,e.g., a portion of cable 910 fixed to housing tube 300, may beconfigured to resist an extension of housing tube 300 relative to cable910. In one or more embodiments, a portion of cable 910 may beconfigured to apply a force to a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., toresist an extension of housing tube 300 relative to cable 910.Illustratively, an application of a force to a portion of housing tube300 may be configured to compress a portion of housing tube 300, e.g.,first housing tube portion 320. In one or more embodiments, acompression of a portion of housing tube 300 may cause housing tube 300to gradually curve. Illustratively, a gradual curving of housing tube300 may be configured to gradually curve optic fiber 310, e.g., from anoptic fiber in a third curved position 1130 to an optic fiber in afourth curved position 1140. In one or more embodiments, a line tangentto optic fiber distal end 311 may be parallel to a line tangent tohousing tube proximal end 302, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises anoptic fiber in a fourth curved position 1140. Illustratively,auto-fixing actuation control 720 and auto-fixing component 420 may beconfigured to temporarily fix auto-fixing actuation control 720 in afifth fixed position within actuation control guide 810. In one or moreembodiments, optic fiber 310 may comprise an optic fiber in a fourthcurved position 1140, e.g., when auto-fixing actuation control 720 isfixed in the fifth fixed position within actuation control guide 810.

In one or more embodiments, one or more properties of a steerable laserprobe may be adjusted to attain one or more desired steerable laserprobe features. Illustratively, a distance that housing tube distal end301 extends from actuation mechanism distal end 711 may be adjusted tovary an amount of actuation of auto-fixing actuation control 720configured to curve housing tube 300 to a particular curved position. Inone or more embodiments, a stiffness of first housing tube portion 320or a stiffness of second housing tube portion 330 may be adjusted tovary an amount of actuation of auto-fixing actuation control 720configured to curve housing tube 300 to a particular curved position.Illustratively, a material comprising first housing tube portion 320 ora material comprising second housing tube portion 330 may be adjusted tovary an amount of actuation of auto-fixing actuation control 720configured to curve housing tube 300 to a particular curved position.

In one or more embodiments, a number of apertures in housing tube 300may be adjusted to vary an amount of actuation of auto-fixing actuationcontrol 720 configured to curve housing tube 300 to a particular curvedposition. Illustratively, a location of one or more apertures in housingtube 300 may be adjusted to vary an amount of actuation of auto-fixingactuation control 720 configured to curve housing tube 300 to aparticular curved position. In one or more embodiments, a geometry ofone or more apertures in housing tube 300 may be adjusted to vary anamount of actuation of auto-fixing actuation control 720 configured tocurve housing tube 300 to a particular curved position. Illustratively,a geometry of one or more apertures in housing tube 300 may be uniform,e.g., each aperture of the one or more apertures may have a samegeometry. In one or more embodiments, a geometry of one or moreapertures in housing tube 300 may be non-uniform, e.g., a first aperturein housing tube 300 may have a first geometry and a second aperture inhousing tube 300 may have a second geometry. Illustratively, a geometryor location of one or more apertures in housing tube 300 may beoptimized to evenly distribute an applied force. For example, a geometryor location of one or more apertures in housing tube 300 may beoptimized to evenly distribute a force applied to first housing tubeportion 320.

Illustratively, a stiffness of first housing tube portion 320 or astiffness of second housing tube portion 330 may be adjusted to vary abend radius of housing tube 300. In one or more embodiments, a stiffnessof first housing tube portion 320 or a stiffness of second housing tubeportion 330 may be adjusted to vary a radius of curvature of housingtube 300, e.g., when housing tube 300 is in a particular curvedposition. Illustratively, a number of apertures in housing tube 300 maybe adjusted to vary a bend radius of housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, a number of apertures in housing tube 300 may be adjustedto vary a radius of curvature of housing tube 300, e.g., when housingtube 300 is in a particular curved position. Illustratively, a locationor a geometry of one or more apertures in housing tube 300 may beadjusted to vary a bend radius of housing tube 300. In one or moreembodiments, a location or a geometry of one or more apertures inhousing tube 300 may be adjusted to vary a radius of curvature ofhousing tube 300, e.g., when housing tube 300 is in a particular curvedposition.

In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of optic fiber 310 may beenclosed in an optic fiber sleeve configured to, e.g., protect opticfiber 310, vary a stiffness of optic fiber 310, vary an optical propertyof optic fiber 310, etc. Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may comprise abuffer, a cladding disposed in the buffer, and a core disposed in thecladding. In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of optic fiber310 may comprise a buffer configured to protect an optical property ofoptic fiber 310. Illustratively, at least a portion of optic fiber 310may comprise a buffer configured to protect an optical layer of opticfiber 310, e.g., the buffer may protect an optical layer of a curvedportion of optic fiber 310. In one or more embodiments, at least aportion of optic fiber 310 may comprise a polyimide buffer configured toprotect an optical property of optic fiber 310. For example, at least aportion of optic fiber 310 may comprise a Kapton buffer configured toprotect an optical property of optic fiber 310.

In one or more embodiments, a location wherein cable 910 may be fixed tohousing tube 300 may be adjusted to vary an amount of actuation ofauto-fixing actuation control 720 configured to curve housing tube 300to a particular curved position. For example, a portion of cable 910 maybe fixed to an outer portion of housing tube 300. Illustratively, cable910 may be fixed to housing tube 300 at a plurality of fixation points,e.g., to vary one or more properties of a steerable laser probe. In oneor more embodiments, a length of cable 910 may be adjusted to vary anamount of actuation of auto-fixing actuation control 720 configured tocurve housing tube 300 to a particular curved position. Illustratively,a steerable laser probe may comprise one or more redundant cables 910.In one or more embodiments, one or more redundant cables 910 may beconfigured to maintain a particular curved position of housing tube 300,e.g., in the event that cable 910 breaks or fails. Illustratively, oneor more redundant cables 910 may be configured to maintain a particularcurved position of housing tube 300, e.g., in the event that a cable 910fixation means fails. In one or more embodiments, one or more redundantcables 910 may be configured to maintain a particular curved position ofhousing tube 300, e.g., in the event that cable 910 is no longerconfigured to maintain the particular curved position of housing tube300. Illustratively, one or more redundant cables 910 may be configuredto maintain a particular curved position of housing tube 300 whereincable 910 is also configured to maintain the particular curved positionof housing tube 300.

In one or more embodiments, housing tube 300 may comprise an accesswindow configured to allow access to a portion cable 910.Illustratively, cable 910 may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 300,e.g., by looping a portion of cable 910 through an aperture in housingtube 300. In one or more embodiments, cable 910 may be fixed to aportion of housing tube 300, e.g., by a purely mechanical means. Forexample, cable 910 may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 300 in amanner other than by an adhesive, a weld, etc. Illustratively, cable 910may be fixed to a portion of housing tube 300 wherein a portion of cable910 is configured to fail at a first applied failure force and afixation means that fixes a portion of cable 910 to a portion of housingtube 300 is configured to fail at a second applied failure force. In oneor more embodiments, the second applied failure force may be greaterthan the first applied failure force.

Illustratively, a steerable laser probe may be configured to indicate,e.g., to a surgeon, a direction that optic fiber 310 may curve, e.g.,due to an actuation of auto-fixing actuation control 720 withinactuation control guide 810. In one or more embodiments, a portion of asteerable laser probe, e.g., handle 800, may be marked in a mannerconfigured to indicate a direction that optic fiber 310 may curve. Forexample, a portion of housing tube 300 may comprise a mark configured toindicate a direction that optic fiber 310 may curve. Illustratively,housing tube 300 may comprise a slight curve, e.g., a curve less than7.5 degrees, when auto-fixing actuation control 720 is fully retractedrelative to actuation control guide proximal end 812. For example,housing tube 300 may comprise a slight curve, e.g., a curve greater than7.5 degrees, when auto-fixing actuation control 720 is fully retractedrelative to actuation control guide proximal end 812. In one or moreembodiments, housing tube 300 may comprise a slight curve configured toindicate a direction that optic fiber 310 may curve, e.g., due to anactuation of auto-fixing actuation control 720 within actuation controlguide 810.

FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, and 12E are schematic diagrams illustrating agradual straightening of an optic fiber 310. FIG. 12A illustrates afully curved optic fiber 1200. In one or more embodiments, optic fiber310 may comprise a fully curved optic fiber 1200, e.g., when auto-fixingactuation control 720 is fully extended relative to actuation controlguide proximal end 812. Illustratively, optic fiber 310 may comprise afully curved optic fiber 1200, e.g., when actuation mechanism 710 isfully extended relative to handle proximal end 802. For example, opticfiber 310 may comprise a fully curved optic fiber 1200, e.g., when firsthousing tube portion 320 is fully compressed. In one or moreembodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may beparallel to a line tangent to housing tube proximal end 302, e.g., whenoptic fiber 310 comprises a fully curved optic fiber 1200.

FIG. 12B illustrates an optic fiber in a first partially straightenedposition 1210. In one or more embodiments, a retraction of auto-fixingactuation control 720 relative to actuation control guide proximal end812 may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310 from afully curved optic fiber 1200 to an optic fiber in a first partiallystraightened position 1210. Illustratively, a retraction of auto-fixingactuation control 720 relative to actuation control guide proximal end812 may be configured to retract actuation mechanism 710 relative tohandle proximal end 802. In one or more embodiments, a retraction ofactuation mechanism 710 relative to handle proximal end 802 may beconfigured to retract housing tube 300 relative to cable 910.Illustratively, a portion of cable 910, e.g., a portion of cable 910fixed to housing tube 300, may be configured to facilitate a retractionof housing tube 300 relative to cable 910. In one or more embodiments, aportion of cable 910 may be configured to reduce a force applied to aportion of housing tube 300, e.g., due to a retraction of housing tube300 relative to cable 910. Illustratively, a reduction of a forceapplied to a portion of housing tube 300 may be configured to decompressa portion of housing tube 300, e.g., first housing tube portion 320. Inone or more embodiments, a decompression of a portion of housing tube300 may cause housing tube 300 to gradually straighten. Illustratively,a gradual straightening of housing tube 300 may be configured togradually straighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from a fully curved opticfiber 1200 to an optic fiber in a first partially straightened position1210. In one or more embodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distalend 311 may intersect a line tangent to housing tube proximal end 302 ata first partially straightened angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310comprises an optic fiber in a first partially straightened position1210. Illustratively, the first partially straightened angle maycomprise any angle less than 180 degrees. For example, the firstpartially straightened angle may comprise a 135 degree angle.

FIG. 12C illustrates an optic fiber in a second partially straightenedposition 1220. In one or more embodiments, a retraction of auto-fixingactuation control 720 relative to actuation control guide proximal end812 may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310 from anoptic fiber in a first partially straightened position 1210 to an opticfiber in a second partially straightened position 1220. Illustratively,a retraction of auto-fixing actuation control 720 relative to actuationcontrol guide proximal end 812 may be configured to retract actuationmechanism 710 relative to handle proximal end 802. In one or moreembodiments, a retraction of actuation mechanism 710 relative to handleproximal end 802 may be configured to retract housing tube 300 relativeto cable 910. Illustratively, a portion of cable 910, e.g., a portion ofcable 910 fixed to housing tube 300, may be configured to facilitate aretraction of housing tube 300 relative to cable 910. In one or moreembodiments, a portion of cable 910 may be configured to reduce a forceapplied to a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., due to a retraction ofhousing tube 300 relative to cable 910. Illustratively, a reduction of aforce applied to a portion of housing tube 300 may be configured todecompress a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., first housing tubeportion 320. In one or more embodiments, a decompression of a portion ofhousing tube 300 may cause housing tube 300 to gradually straighten.Illustratively, a gradual straightening of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from an opticfiber in a first partially straightened position 1210 to an optic fiberin a second partially straightened position 1220. In one or moreembodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may intersecta line tangent to housing tube proximal end 302 at a second partiallystraightened angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiberin a second partially straightened position 1220. Illustratively, thesecond partially straightened angle may comprise any angle less than thefirst partially straightened angle. For example, the second partiallystraightened angle may comprise a 90 degree angle.

FIG. 12D illustrates an optic fiber in a third partially straightenedposition 1230. In one or more embodiments, a retraction of auto-fixingactuation control 720 relative to actuation control guide proximal end812 may be configured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310 from anoptic fiber in a second partially straightened position 1220 to an opticfiber in a third partially straightened position 1230. Illustratively, aretraction of auto-fixing actuation control 720 relative to actuationcontrol guide proximal end 812 may be configured to retract actuationmechanism 710 relative to handle proximal end 802. In one or moreembodiments, a retraction of actuation mechanism 710 relative to handleproximal end 802 may be configured to retract housing tube 300 relativeto cable 910. Illustratively, a portion of cable 910, e.g., a portion ofcable 910 fixed to housing tube 300, may be configured to facilitate aretraction of housing tube 300 relative to cable 910. In one or moreembodiments, a portion of cable 910 may be configured to reduce a forceapplied to a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., due to a retraction ofhousing tube 300 relative to cable 910. Illustratively, a reduction of aforce applied to a portion of housing tube 300 may be configured todecompress a portion of housing tube 300, e.g., first housing tubeportion 320. In one or more embodiments, a decompression of a portion ofhousing tube 300 may cause housing tube 300 to gradually straighten.Illustratively, a gradual straightening of housing tube 300 may beconfigured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from an opticfiber in a second partially straightened position 1220 to an optic fiberin a third partially straightened position 1230. In one or moreembodiments, a line tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 may intersecta line tangent to housing tube proximal end 302 at a third partiallystraightened angle, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises an optic fiberin a third partially straightened position 1230. Illustratively, thethird partially straightened angle may comprise any angle less than thesecond partially straightened angle. For example, the third partiallystraightened angle may comprise a 45 degree angle.

FIG. 12E illustrates an optic fiber in a fully straightened position1240. In one or more embodiments, a retraction of auto-fixing actuationcontrol 720 relative to actuation control guide proximal end 812 may beconfigured to gradually straighten optic fiber 310 from an optic fiberin a third partially straightened position 1230 to an optic fiber in afully straightened position 1240. Illustratively, a retraction ofauto-fixing actuation control 720 relative to actuation control guideproximal end 812 may be configured to retract actuation mechanism 710relative to handle proximal end 802. In one or more embodiments, aretraction of actuation mechanism 710 relative to handle proximal end802 may be configured to retract housing tube 300 relative to cable 910.Illustratively, a portion of cable 910, e.g., a portion of cable 910fixed to housing tube 300, may be configured to facilitate a retractionof housing tube 300 relative to cable 910. In one or more embodiments, aportion of cable 910 may be configured to reduce a force applied to aportion of housing tube 300, e.g., due to a retraction of housing tube300 relative to cable 910. Illustratively, a reduction of a forceapplied to a portion of housing tube 300 may be configured to decompressa portion of housing tube 300, e.g., first housing tube portion 320. Inone or more embodiments, a decompression of a portion of housing tube300 may cause housing tube 300 to gradually straighten. Illustratively,a gradual straightening of housing tube 300 may be configured togradually straighten optic fiber 310, e.g., from an optic fiber in athird partially straightened position 1230 to an optic fiber in a fullystraightened position 1240. In one or more embodiments, a line tangentto optic fiber distal end 311 may be parallel to a line tangent tohousing tube proximal end 302, e.g., when optic fiber 310 comprises anoptic fiber in a fully straightened position 1240.

Illustratively, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at any of aplurality of targets within an eye, e.g., to perform a photocoagulationprocedure, to illuminate a surgical target site, etc. In one or moreembodiments, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at any targetwithin a particular transverse plane of the inner eye by, e.g., rotatinghandle 800 to orient housing tube 300 in an orientation configured tocause a curvature of housing tube 300 within the particular transverseplane of the inner eye and varying an amount of actuation of auto-fixingactuation control 720 within actuation control guide 810.Illustratively, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at anytarget within a particular sagittal plane of the inner eye by, e.g.,rotating handle 800 to orient housing tube 300 in an orientationconfigured to cause a curvature of housing tube 300 within theparticular sagittal plane of the inner eye and varying an amount ofactuation of auto-fixing actuation control 720 within actuation controlguide 810. In one or more embodiments, a surgeon may aim optic fiberdistal end 311 at any target within a particular frontal plane of theinner eye by, e.g., varying an amount of actuation of auto-fixingactuation control 720 within actuation control guide 810 to orient aline tangent to optic fiber distal end 311 wherein the line tangent tooptic fiber distal end 311 is within the particular frontal plane of theinner eye and rotating handle 800. Illustratively, a surgeon may aimoptic fiber distal end 311 at any target located outside of theparticular transverse plane, the particular sagittal plane, and theparticular frontal plane of the inner eye, e.g., by varying a rotationalorientation of handle 800 and varying an amount of actuation ofauto-fixing actuation control 720 within actuation control guide 810. Inone or more embodiments, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 atany target of a plurality of targets within an eye, e.g., withoutincreasing a length of a portion of a steerable laser probe within theeye. Illustratively, a surgeon may aim optic fiber distal end 311 at anytarget of a plurality of targets within an eye, e.g., without decreasinga length of a portion of a steerable laser probe within the eye.

The foregoing description has been directed to particular embodiments ofthis invention. It will be apparent; however, that other variations andmodifications may be made to the described embodiments, with theattainment of some or all of their advantages. Specifically, it shouldbe noted that the principles of the present invention may be implementedin any system. Furthermore, while this description has been written interms of a surgical instrument, the teachings of the present inventionare equally suitable to any systems where the functionality may beemployed. Therefore, it is the object of the appended claims to coverall such variations and modifications as come within the true spirit andscope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A laser probe comprising: a handle having ahandle distal end and a handle proximal end; an actuation control guideof the handle having an actuation control guide distal end and anactuation control guide proximal end; an actuation control having anactuation control distal end and an actuation control proximal endwherein the actuation control is disposed in the actuation controlguide; an actuation mechanism having an actuation mechanism distal endand an actuation mechanism proximal end wherein the actuation mechanismis disposed in the handle; a housing tube having a housing tube distalend and a housing tube proximal end wherein the housing tube is disposedin a housing tube housing and wherein the housing tube distal endextends from the handle distal end; a first housing tube portion of thehousing tube having a first stiffness; a plurality of apertures of thefirst housing tube portion; a second housing tube portion of the housingtube having a second stiffness wherein the second stiffness is greaterthan the first stiffness; and an optic fiber having an optic fiberdistal end and an optic fiber proximal end wherein the optic fiber isdisposed in the handle and the housing tube and wherein an actuation ofthe actuation control towards the handle distal end and away from thehandle proximal end is configured to extend the housing tube relative tothe optic fiber and curve the optic fiber.
 2. The laser probe of claim 1wherein the actuation of the actuation control towards the handle distalend and away from the handle proximal end is configured to extend theactuation mechanism relative to the handle.
 3. The laser probe of claim1 wherein the actuation of the actuation control towards the handledistal end and away from the handle proximal end is configured to curvethe housing tube.
 4. The laser probe of claim 1 wherein an actuation ofthe actuation control towards the handle proximal end and away from thehandle distal end is configured to straighten the optic fiber.
 5. Thelaser probe of claim 1 wherein an actuation of the actuation controltowards the handle proximal end and away from the handle distal end isconfigured to straighten the housing tube.
 6. The laser probe of claim 1wherein an actuation of the actuation control towards the handleproximal end and away from the handle distal end is configured toretract the housing tube relative to the optic fiber.
 7. The laser probeof claim 1 wherein the actuation of the actuation control towards thehandle distal end and away from the handle proximal end is configured tocompress the first housing tube portion.
 8. A laser probe comprising: ahandle having a handle distal end and a handle proximal end; anactuation control guide of the handle having an actuation control guidedistal end and an actuation control guide proximal end; an actuationcontrol having an actuation control distal end and an actuation controlproximal end wherein the actuation control is disposed in the actuationcontrol guide; an actuation mechanism having an actuation mechanismdistal end and an actuation mechanism proximal end wherein the actuationmechanism is disposed in the handle; a housing tube having a housingtube distal end and a housing tube proximal end wherein the housing tubeis disposed in a housing tube housing and wherein the housing tubedistal end extends from the handle distal end; a first housing tubeportion of the housing tube having a first stiffness; a plurality ofapertures of the first housing tube portion; a second housing tubeportion of the housing tube having a second stiffness wherein the secondstiffness is greater than the first stiffness; and an optic fiber havingan optic fiber distal end and an optic fiber proximal end wherein theoptic fiber is disposed in the handle and the housing tube and whereinan actuation of the actuation control towards the handle distal end andaway from the handle proximal end is configured to extend the housingtube relative to the optic fiber and curve the housing tube.
 9. Thelaser probe of claim 8 wherein the actuation of the actuation controltowards the handle distal end and away from the handle proximal end isconfigured to curve the optic fiber.
 10. The laser probe of claim 8wherein the actuation of the actuation control towards the handle distalend and away from the handle proximal end is configured to extend theactuation mechanism relative to the handle.
 11. The laser probe of claim8 wherein the actuation of the actuation control towards the handledistal end and away from the handle proximal end is configured tocompress the first housing tube portion.
 12. The laser probe of claim 8wherein an actuation of the actuation control towards the handleproximal end and away from the handle distal end is configured tostraighten the optic fiber.
 13. The laser probe of claim 8 wherein anactuation of the actuation control towards the handle proximal end andaway from the handle distal end is configured to straighten the housingtube.
 14. The laser probe of claim 8 wherein an actuation of theactuation control towards the handle proximal end and away from thehandle distal end is configured to retract the housing tube relative tothe optic fiber.
 15. A laser probe comprising: a handle having a handledistal end and a handle proximal end; an actuation control guide of thehandle having an actuation control guide distal end and an actuationcontrol guide proximal end; an actuation control having an actuationcontrol distal end and an actuation control proximal end wherein theactuation control is disposed in the actuation control guide; anactuation mechanism having an actuation mechanism distal end and anactuation mechanism proximal end wherein the actuation mechanism isdisposed in the handle; a housing tube having a housing tube distal endand a housing tube proximal end wherein the housing tube is disposed ina housing tube housing and wherein the housing tube distal end extendsfrom the handle distal end; a first housing tube portion of the housingtube having a first stiffness; a plurality of apertures of the firsthousing tube portion; a second housing tube portion of the housing tubehaving a second stiffness wherein the second stiffness is greater thanthe first stiffness; and an optic fiber having an optic fiber distal endand an optic fiber proximal end wherein the optic fiber is disposed inthe handle and the housing tube and wherein an actuation of theactuation control towards the handle proximal end and away from thehandle distal end is configured to retract the housing tube relative tothe optic fiber and straighten the optic fiber.
 16. The laser probe ofclaim 15 wherein an actuation of the actuation control towards thehandle distal end and away from the handle proximal end is configured tocurve the optic fiber.
 17. The laser probe of claim 15 wherein anactuation of the actuation control towards the handle distal end andaway from the handle proximal end is configured to curve the housingtube.
 18. The laser probe of claim 15 wherein an actuation of theactuation control towards the handle distal end and away from the handleproximal end is configured to extend the housing tube relative to theoptic fiber.
 19. The laser probe of claim 15 wherein the actuation ofthe actuation control towards the handle proximal end and away from thehandle distal end is configured to straighten the housing tube.
 20. Thelaser probe of claim 15 wherein the actuation of the actuation controltowards the handle proximal end and away from the handle distal end isconfigured to retract the actuation mechanism relative to the handle.